Washington's Flood Woes: When Politics Threaten Preparedness

Washington state is no stranger to floods, but recent storms have shown just how vulnerable communities can be when vital projects are put on hold. The state had secured millions in federal grants to protect homes and move people away from flood-prone areas. However, the Trump administration's attempts to cut funding and delay approvals have left many of these projects in limbo.

Storm Damage and Future Risks

The recent storms have caused widespread damage, with over 1,300 rescues and one fatality. These storms, known as atmospheric rivers, are expected to become more severe due to climate change. While the delayed federal funding might not have helped during this round of storms, it could have made a significant difference in the future.

Legal Challenges and Funding Delays

The Trump administration's decision to cancel the FEMA's BRIC program, which supports state and local resilience projects, has been met with legal challenges. Washington and over 20 other states sued to challenge the cancellation, and they won a summary judgment. However, the money has not been delivered yet, leaving many projects on hold.

Affected Projects

• Hoquiam and Aberdeen: A plan to build levees and floodwalls that could save residents millions in construction and insurance costs.
• Pierce County: A project to relocate residents from a flood-prone mobile home park.
• Orting: A city south of Seattle where the existing levee was just inches away from being overtopped by floodwaters. The city's mayor expects the levee to fail soon, but the construction of a new one is still facing hurdles.

Additional Funding on Hold

Meanwhile, another $31 million in grants is awaiting approval from the homeland security secretary. One of these grants supports a program to buy properties that have flooded at least twice in 10 years and convert them to open space as a buffer for floodwaters. The grant has been stalled since June, and it's unclear when it will be approved.

Preparing for Future Storms

In some of the areas hit hardest by the December storms, homes have flooded repeatedly. While the delayed funding might not have helped this time, it's crucial to keep these projects moving to prepare for future storms.